Carrot Cake Muffins with Cream Cheese

Name: Carrot Cake Muffins with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup grated carrots; 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional); 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes

I absolutely adore these carrot cake muffins with cream cheese! They combine the warmth of spices and the sweetness of carrots, resulting in mouthwatering breakfast treats that my family can’t get enough of. I experimented with adding crushed pineapple for extra moisture, which made them even more delightful. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and the cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the muffins. Whether enjoyed with morning coffee or as an afternoon snack, these muffins are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-02T17:22:27.794Z

When I first made these carrot cake muffins, I was thrilled with how they turned out! The mix of freshly grated carrots with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg filled my kitchen with such a comforting aroma. I learned that incorporating yogurt not only adds moisture but also keeps the muffins light and fluffy. It was a delightful surprise!

Each muffin is generously topped with cream cheese frosting, which adds a rich, tangy flavor that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the cake. Future batches will definitely include crushed pineapple for an extra twist!

Why You Will Love These Muffins
Moist and flavorful with the perfect hint of spice
Cream cheese frosting adds a delectable richness
Easy to make and perfect for any time of day

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

For scrumptious carrot cake muffins, freshness is key. Use freshly grated carrots instead of pre-packaged ones to enhance flavor and moisture. The carrots should be vibrant and crunchy, ensuring they will contribute to the muffins' texture. If you're adding crushed pineapple, make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture that can lead to soggy muffins. Fresh ingredients not only improve the taste but also provide better nutrition, making your muffins a satisfying choice for breakfast or a snack.

Another ingredient to consider is your spices. Using freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg can profoundly impact the flavor profile, offering a warmer and more aromatic experience. If you want to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for a unique twist. Always check the expiration dates on your spices to guarantee that you’re getting the full range of flavors. Fresh ingredients can elevate your baking and ensure that each muffin bursts with flavor.

Achieving Perfect Texture

Getting the right texture for your muffins is crucial. The key to moist, fluffy carrot cake muffins lies in not overmixing the batter. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until no flour is visible. It's okay if there are small lumps; this helps to prevent dense muffins. Folding in the grated carrots gently ensures that they are evenly distributed without compromising the muffins' airiness.

Baking temp and time also play a significant role in texture. Baking at 350°F (175°C) typically yields a golden-brown muffin with a soft crumb. Keep an eye on your muffins around the 18-minute mark; this is often when they start to turn golden. The telltale sign of doneness is how they spring back when lightly pressed in the center. Remember, oven temperatures can vary, so it’s wise to start checking a couple of minutes early to avoid overbaking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

For the Muffins

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup grated carrots
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to prep the ingredients before moving on to the next steps.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your delicious muffins:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots and crushed pineapple if using.

Bake the Muffins

Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

While the muffins cool, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

Frost the Muffins

Once the muffins are completely cool, generously frost them with the cream cheese frosting.

Enjoy your homemade carrot cake muffins!

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider mixing in chopped walnuts or pecans along with the carrots.

Serving Tips and Variations

These muffins are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them even further by serving them with your favorite spreads, such as honey or a sprinkle of toasted walnuts on top. A side of fresh fruit, like sliced oranges or a berry medley, adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the muffins. For an afternoon snack, consider pairing them with a cup of spiced chai or iced coffee for a delightful treat that keeps you energized.

If you want to switch things up, consider adding different mix-ins. Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a crunchy texture, while dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can introduce an interesting sweetness. For a tropical flair, swap the crushed pineapple for diced mango. These small changes can create a variety of flavors while keeping the essence of the carrot muffins intact.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These carrot cake muffins can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep. After baking, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be thawed at room temperature or warmed in the microwave for a quick breakfast or snack.

If you plan to frost them, it's best to store the muffins unfrosted to maintain their texture. You can whip up the cream cheese frosting ahead of time, too. Just keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and give it a quick stir before using. This allows you to enjoy fresh muffins throughout the week without sacrificing quality or flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I store leftover muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the muffins?

Absolutely! Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese in the frosting?

You can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese for a different flavor and texture.